Bonnie Jo Sporman

Bonnie J Sporman, 76, passed away on April 13, 2023.  Born at St Margaret Hospital in Hammond, she spent much of her youth and adulthood all around Highland and Hammond.

Although Bonnie’s addresses were close in proximity, she traveled all over the country and world.  Her most memorable trips were a safari in Africa, walking on a glacier in Alaska, and camping in Acadia National Park.  She was known for her compassion for students, her love for animals (especially kittens and elephants), her excitement for good food, and her willingness to endure any Chicago team ball game, even the losses.  She loved playing board games with her friends, and hosting theme parties for any occasion including setting up her Christmas Village, the Olympics and the Oscar parties.  She was an avid life learner and determined advocate for many people and causes.  Bonnie received her Masters degree in education, followed by 36 years of teaching 4th grade at Johnston Elementary School in Highland.  She was teaching some of the other residents during her final years at Med Inn.  

Bonnie was a dedicated member of the Highland Historical Society and Chapter Beta Pi Master of Beta Sigma Phi Sorority.  She also generously donated to the Elephant Sanctuary of Hohenwald, TN, the US Olympic Committee, and the Food Bank of NWI.  Bonnie will forever be remembered for her stubborn and often concerning “look” when she disagreed with you, as well as her contagious smile that gleamed ear to ear when the slightest nuance impressed her.  She often stated one of her favorite treasures were the many fortunate friendships she maintained throughout her lifetime.

Bonnie was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Marie Sporman.  She is survived by her loving siblings Leonard (Sharon) Sporman, Lauren (John) Pohl and Jeri (Charlie) Sheldahl, her nephew Rob (Renee) Henderson, her niece Shana (Gordon) Breidenbach, her nephew Ben (Alyssa) Sporman and her great nephews Jonathon (Jessica Cochran) and Jacob Henderson, Myles and Montana Breidenbach and her great great niece/nephew Zoe and Zane.

An open visitation will be held at Fagen Miller Funeral Home on Thursday, May 25, in Highland from 10-11:30 with a Celebration of Life service to follow. Share condolences, memories and more with Bonnie's family by visiting her tribute page at www.fagenmiller.com.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Highland Historical Society, the Elephant Sanctuary of Hohenwald, TN, or your local food bank.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Bonnie Jo Sporman, please visit our floral store.